Pre-cut Pouching Systems Question: I have had a stoma for several years, but recently I developed arthritis in my hands. It’s getting difficult to use scissors to cut my flanges. Is there anything else I can use? Answer: Preparation of [...]

Pouch Liners Question: I have a colostomy and recently saw an ad about a liner for inside a pouch. I already use a closed-end pouch. How do the liners work and are they effective? Answer: You are probably referring to [...]

Pouch Clips Question: I have been using a plastic clip with my ostomy pouch for years. I have heard that there are now pouches with clips attached. Are these safe to use? Answer: Closure devices for the tails of drainable [...]

Pastes Question: I have an ostomy and have been using tube paste for years. Recently someone told me about strip paste. Is this paste better than what I am currently using? Answer: Pastes for ostomy care come under the general [...]

Parastomal Hernias Question: My doctor says I have a hernia around my stoma. What do I need to know about this? Answer: Simply, a hernia is an abnormal protrusion, or out-pouching, of bowel through a weakened area in the abdominal [...]

Ostomy Resources Question: I just had surgery that resulted in an ostomy. I wasn’t given very much information in the hospital. Do you know of any resources that may be helpful? Answer: There is a wide range of resources available [...]

Ostomy Belts Question: I have seen belts for ostomy pouches in the retail stores. I am not sure if I need one. How would I know? Answer: Ostomy belts come under the category of “accessories” for ostomy products. A belt [...]

Ostomy Accessories Question: I have just had surgery and now have an ostomy. My ET sent me home with just flanges, pouches and paste. My HomeCare nurse says I need more supplies like stoma powder, adhesive remover and skin wipes. [...]

Irrigation for Colostomies Question: I have a colostomy and someone suggested I could try irrigation to manage it. What is irrigation? Answer: Irrigations for colostomies involve the regular installation of moderate to large volumes of water to clear the colon [...]

Interesting Ostomy Accessories Question: Where can I buy interesting ostomy accessories? Answer: The basics of ostomy care require, at a minimum, the use of a skin barrier and a pouch. Additional supplies, or accessories, may be necessary to ensure a [...]